Former CM Calls Law “Half-Baked” and “Deceptive to Panchayats”
Key Points:
- Champai Soren criticizes state government’s PESA law implementation rules
- Former CM claims law weakens gram sabha instead of strengthening
- Demands tribal placement in Fourth Schedule before proper implementation
JAMSHEDPUR – Former Chief Minister Champai Soren has raised serious questions about the PESA law rules framed by the state government.
He said the government brought a law that weakens gram sabha. The legislation has become deceptive to panchayats instead of empowering them. Moreover, he criticized the implementation framework severely.
The PESA Act was proposed in 1996. Continuous agitation has occurred since then regarding its implementation. However, Soren alleged the tribal community has been deceived.
“The current government has cheated the tribal society,” Soren stated. The law was implemented improperly in Ranchi. Furthermore, he questioned its actual benefits for scheduled areas.
He called the law half-baked and incomplete. Traditional customs of tribal society were sidelined during formulation. Besides, the implementation ignores indigenous practices and traditions.
Soren questioned the benefits for scheduled area residents. The advantages remain unclear and beyond understanding. On the other hand, the law’s framework lacks proper consultation.
He accused the government of playing with scheduled area populations. People were misled under the PESA law’s name. Meanwhile, widespread discussion on this issue will occur soon.
The former chief minister announced plans for opposition. He demanded tribal placement in Fourth Schedule first. In addition, proper PESA implementation should follow this step.
“Tribals should be placed in Fourth Schedule,” Soren emphasized. Only then can PESA be correctly implemented. However, current implementation lacks this fundamental requirement.
He will take this issue to tribals statewide. Consultations with community members will be held. Moreover, he plans comprehensive deliberations on the matter.
The PESA Act grants self-governance powers to gram sabhas. It covers scheduled areas with significant tribal populations. Furthermore, the law aims to protect tribal rights and customs.
The 1996 Act extends Panchayati Raj to scheduled areas. It recognizes traditional governance systems and community rights. Besides, it empowers gram sabhas over natural resources.
Tribal bodies have been demanding swift PESA implementation. Leaders in Jamshedpur previously pushed for alignment. Additionally, protests in Chaibasa demanded proper implementation. Former CM also reviewed PESA rules during his tenure.
